Irregular periods are more than just an inconvenience—they can indicate underlying health issues that deserve attention. Missed cycles, heavy bleeding, or unpredictable periods can affect your daily life, mood, and overall well-being. While occasional changes are normal, persistent menstrual irregularities should not be ignored.
What Counts as an Irregular Period?
A regular menstrual cycle usually lasts between 21 and 35 days, with bleeding that typically continues for three to seven days. Changes in the timing, flow, or duration of your periods can indicate underlying issues such as hormonal imbalances, stress, or conditions like PCOS or thyroid disorders.
Dr. Joseph Leveno, OB/GYN at Medical City Plano, specializes in evaluating menstrual irregularities and providing personalized care. He uses a comprehensive approach—including medical history review, exams, and testing—to identify the root cause and offer tailored solutions such as hormone therapy, lifestyle guidance, nutritional support, and condition-specific management.
While occasional irregularities are common, persistent changes should be addressed promptly to support long-term reproductive health.
Signs of irregular period may include:
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Missed or skipped cycles
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Cycles that are shorter or longer than usual
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Unusually heavy or light bleeding
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Spotting between periods
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Severe cramping or discomfort
Common Causes of Irregular Periods
Menstrual irregularities can arise from a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:
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Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone can disrupt regular cycles. These imbalances may occur during perimenopause, menopause, or as part of other health conditions.
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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This common hormonal disorder can cause irregular cycles, acne, excess hair growth, and fertility challenges.
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Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism affect hormone regulation and menstrual regularity.
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Stress and Lifestyle Factors: High stress, sudden weight changes, intense exercise, or poor nutrition can impact cycle consistency.
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Medications: Certain medications, including hormonal contraceptives, anticoagulants, and some psychiatric drugs, can alter cycle patterns.
Understanding these causes is the first step toward effective treatment. Dr. Leveno at Medical City Plano assesses the root cause of irregular periods and creates personalized care plans, providing solutions to restore balance and support long-term menstrual health.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
While occasional changes can be normal, some symptoms require prompt medical attention. Extremely heavy bleeding that soaks through pads or tampons in an hour, sudden severe pain, bleeding between cycles, or abrupt changes in your menstrual pattern should not be ignored. Early evaluation by a specialist like Dr. Leveno can help diagnose conditions quickly and prevent complications.
How Dr. Leveno Can Help
Dr. Leveno takes a personalized approach to menstrual health. He carefully reviews your medical history, conducts thorough examinations, and orders tests to pinpoint the cause of irregular periods. By addressing the underlying condition rather than just managing symptoms, he helps women achieve a predictable, balanced cycle.
Treatment may include lifestyle guidance, nutritional support, stress management techniques, or medical interventions such as hormonal therapy, thyroid management, or care for conditions like PCOS. Each plan is tailored to your health, reproductive goals, and lifestyle.
Supporting Your Cycle Through Lifestyle
In addition to medical care, healthy habits can support a regular menstrual cycle. Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising moderately, managing stress, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol can all improve hormone balance, circulation, and energy levels.
Dr. Leveno offers wellness coaching at his clinic to help patients implement these lifestyle changes effectively and sustainably. Tracking your cycle provides valuable insight for him to develop a personalized care plan that supports both your physical health and overall well-being.
Long-Term Health Implications
Persistent irregular periods can impact your long-term health. Untreated menstrual irregularities may increase the risk of anemia, fertility challenges, or hormone-related conditions. Addressing these issues early with Dr. Leveno ensures better reproductive health and overall wellness.
Emotional Well-Being and Menstrual Health
Menstrual irregularities can impact emotional well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, frustration, or mood swings. Dr. Leveno considers both physical and emotional health when developing care plans, offering guidance and support to help patients manage these challenges. By addressing underlying causes and providing personalized solutions, he helps improve quality of life while promoting a more balanced and predictable menstrual cycle.
When to Schedule an Appointment
If you experience persistent changes in your menstrual cycle, heavy bleeding, missed periods, or severe discomfort, it’s time to seek professional care. Early evaluation prevents complications, improves quality of life, and provides reassurance about your reproductive health.
Dr. Joseph Leveno at Medical City Plano offers compassionate, individualized care for women with irregular periods. By identifying the root cause and creating a personalized treatment plan, he helps patients regain balance, restore confidence, and support overall wellness.